I have been thinking recently on the subconscious side of our nature; the little unacknowledged persuasive elements that operate beneath the surface of our actively conscious minds. How, quite often, the motivation we first throw into conscious change or positive steps can be defeated so easily by this subconscious influence.
When trying to sustain positive change in my life I realised where I tend to fall down is through habit. The subconscious things that fill our daily life, our actions but also our reactions. I am in the habit of reacting to certain situations in a certain way and I carry around many habitual actions, some positive, some not so and this is part of our human nature, we are habitual creatures.
Even though we go through life with good intention; it is so easy, at times, to slide into habits that do not reflect our positive intent. Good intention is one thing but to actually make the change and then stick to it can be challenging.
It is when we let subconscious negative habits drive our action and reactions that it can be difficult to sustain the momentum for change. In order to make positive change in our life it is necessary to redevelop some of our habits so that we can reclaim some of that good intent.
So in light of my new found good intention to hold onto my good intention I thought I would examine how I could work towards making new habits a lasting change : )
1. A clear set of Values
A clear set of values enables each of us to acknowledge what it is we want in our life, what is important to us, what allows us to be happy, content and fulfilled. We might not consider often enough what we truly value in life and it is for this reason it can be so easy to lose sight of the good intent we all have. By redeveloping habits that reflect our values we can work consciously and actively towards what it is we want in life with conviction and certainty.
2. Balance
Everyday life is demanding and our good intention will sometimes be compromised for necessity. To hold onto good intention balance is needed more than an unachievable desire for perfection. To sustain the motivation for change, create a balance between values and the demands of everyday life. Acknowledge the good intention and strive for achievable change. We can easily be overwhelmed or disenchanted by wanting to achieve it all at once.
.3 Go the extra mile
Leading demanding, engaging and jam-packed lives we often form habits that allow us to get through life quickly, easily and with the least hassle. We look to convenience, ease and at-hand solutions, often forgetting, in the short term at least, our good intention. By overcoming haste, lethargy and immediacy when can form habits that are more effective, sustaining and positive. Go the extra mile, put in a little more effort and be ready to reap the rewards of a job well done.
4. Stay Positive
Positive thoughts have a way of taking a back seat when we are tired, drained or unfocused. If we keep in mind the positive elements of our new habits and remind ourselves of their benefits and good intention it helps to keep us focused and energised on the task at hand. Staying positive and keeping a clear mind as to what we hope to achieve helps to sustain the momentum for change in our lives.
5. Embrace the Change
Change can be scary. We tend to find comfort in the habits and routine of our lives, but it can also be these very habits and safe routines that are having a negative impact. If we truly want to change it must be for a reason, whether it is for health, happiness, fulfilment, hold onto the reason and embrace the positive change. Change is a powerful force and once we start to see the benefits of even small changes in our life it can empower us and provide the motivation to sustain positive drive in all aspects of our life.
The most important thing when trying to hold onto that good intention is to be conscious always of what it is that is important to our true self, to our happiness, our values.
I have come to realise that I can form more positive habits in place of old habits simply by being more conscious of my inner values and true self. By acknowledging what is important to me, my goals, dreams, aspirations and intention I can more actively work towards finding a balance between my everyday life and my true inner values of living a simpler, healthier, happier, and more thoughtful existence.
And hopefully through making new habits a lasting change I’ll hold onto my good intentions for good : )
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"I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything I will not refuse to do the something that I can do." ~Hellen Keller
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Great post! I think #4 is soooooo important!
Often I see people underestimate the importance of defining their values. I am glad you put this first on your list! It is the best way to establish congruency in our habits.